Bill's Backyard

Bill's Backyard is the outdoor exhibit space at the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose, and if you're already planning a CDM visit, it's absolutely part of the experience. Named after a donor who envisioned an outdoor space where kids could connect with nature in a hands-on museum context, this backyard delivers exactly that — interactive, nature-themed installations in an open-air setting that contrasts beautifully with the museum's interior exhibits.

The outdoor environment gives kids a different energy than the indoor galleries. There's more room to run, more sensory richness from natural materials and open sky, and a distinct feeling of freedom that young children respond to instinctively. The exhibits are designed with the same CDM philosophy of learning through play, but the outdoor setting adds wind, sunlight, and real nature elements to the mix.

For families visiting the Children's Discovery Museum, Bill's Backyard is included in admission — no extra cost, no extra ticket. It's worth building extra time into your CDM visit to fully explore the outdoor space rather than treating it as an afterthought.

Practically, the space is outdoor, so dress for the weather. The museum itself is located in downtown San Jose on Woz Way, near the Tech Interactive museum, which makes the neighborhood a good option for multi-museum family days. CDM is closed on Mondays — check hours before heading out.